A UK 12 dress and a US 12 dress are not the same size. US sizes run four lower than UK sizes, and EU sizes run 28 higher than US sizes. The chart below puts the three together.
Dress size chart
Body measurements are approximate and vary by brand.
| UK | US | EU | Bust (in) | Waist (in) | Hips (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 2 | 34 | 30 | 23 | 33 |
| 8 | 4 | 36 | 32 | 25 | 35 |
| 10 | 6 | 38 | 34 | 27 | 37 |
| 12 | 8 | 40 | 36 | 29 | 39 |
| 14 | 10 | 42 | 38 | 31 | 41 |
| 16 | 12 | 44 | 40 | 33 | 43 |
Quick rules
UK minus 4 is US. UK plus 28 is EU. So a UK 12 is a US 8 and an EU 40.
Tips for ordering dresses
- Use your bust measurement first for fitted tops, and your waist or hips for skirts.
- Check the fabric. A stretch jersey forgives more than a structured woven dress.
- Check the length against your height if you are petite or tall. See our petite sizing guide.
- Read the brand's own chart. Some brands size larger or smaller than this table.
For other conversions, see EU vs US clothing sizes or the US to UK size converter.
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